Asset tag and methods and devices for restocking and asset tracking

ABSTRACT

An asset tag adapted to be mounted to an asset. The asset tag comprises a first component encoded with a first ID unique to the asset tag, the first component having a first wireless interface and transmitting first broadcast signals via said first wireless interface over a first range, the first broadcast signals including the first ID. The asset tag further comprises a user-actuatable button. The asset tag further comprises processing circuitry, coupled to the button and to at least the first wireless interface. The processing circuitry is configured for (i) determining whether a predetermined gesture has been performed by a user using the button and (ii) if the predetermined gesture has been performed, transmitting via the first wireless interface to a wireless access point a restock message, the restock message including the first ID and indicating that restocking is required of assets corresponding to the first ID.

BACKGROUND Field

The present invention relates to electronic stock or asset monitoringtechniques, and more particularly to an asset tag and methods anddevices for restocking and asset tracking.

Description of the Related Art

This invention concerns systems and methods for providing monitoring ofquantities of stock or assets in an accurate and preferably securemanner, in storage environments where hand-portable stock items can bestored and accessed by a user or, more typically, a multitude ofdifferent users or employees. Such storage environments are typicallyfound at manufacturing, construction, aerospace, healthcare and othersites. The assets may include tools, consumable materials, andsingle-use and reusable items. As used herein, “item”, “product” and“asset” may be used interchangeably; and assets may be referred togenerally as “indirect materials” or “inventory”.

In prior art systems the amount of stock retrieved or removed fromstorage has been determined using tags. For example, WO2006/000016A1discloses an apparatus for detecting removal of items from acompartment. The apparatus comprises a reader for reading RadioFrequency Identification (RFID) tags attached to items in thecompartment and a processor, coupled to the reader, for identifyingitems removed from the compartment. US2016/071052A1 discloses a stockmonitoring system, for monitoring items of stock in one or morestorerooms for stock items using, inter alia, a reader and/or wirelesstransmitter being adapted for short-range communication. The reader,wireless transmitter and/or the first wireless transceiver may comprisea near field communication (NFC) device, and the tag may comprise a NFCRFID tag.

US2015/222740A1 discloses a wireless alerting system for personal areaasset supervision; the system includes an observing device, using a hostapparatus such as Bluetooth®, capable of monitoring at least oneidentifier device located within a selected proximity which encompassesan area in a selected radius of distance. The identifier device is ageneric tag or customized to some extent in the system for attachment toany item.

US2016/105762A1 discloses an asset monitoring and tracking system with adistributed Bluetooth® low energy (BLE) sensor system of heterogeneoussensors over wireless networks. One or more Bluetooth® assets having aBluetooth radio are associated with a specific set of business rules byenterprise users. Scan event data is received from at least one of aplurality of Bluetooth® sensors having Bluetooth® radios, wirelesslydistributed around a communication network. The scan event data resultsfrom a scan event wherein the Bluetooth® asset was within range of theat least one Bluetooth® sensor. A BLE device comprises a Bluetooth tag,a Bluetooth device app, and a Bluetooth radio.

Thus, asset tagging and/or tracking techniques are known in which eitherNFC (RFID) tags or Bluetooth tags are used. However, a problem with suchsystems is that some organisations have thousands of assets across theirsites, and the process of setting up the Bluetooth tags by a user isonerous and time consuming.

A further problem is that there is a requirement to read the Bluetoothsignal into software or pair the tag with a mobile device using a buttonon the Bluetooth tag, complicating the setup of links. Also, the numberof Bluetooth tags that can be paired with one mobile device is limited(traditionally, only up to six).

A further problem is that asset tags (especially Bluetooth) can bedifficult to fabricate so as to be made waterproof. Also, with Bluetoothtags battery life can limit usage, due to depletion in use: assetmanagement can be prevented when the battery is depleted in theBluetooth tag. It can also be difficult to obtain the ID of a tag thatrequires battery changeout.

A further problem with Bluetooth tags is that unauthorised actors canconnect to the Bluetooth component so that it is possible for the tag tobe hacked.

A further problem with traditional tags is that booking of a particularasset/tool to a job for an operative using vehicles and/or movingbetween and sites is not readily provided.

A further problem is that suitable techniques do not exist forlocating/tracking assets at a site using a portable device.

A further problem is that suitable techniques do not exist allowingautomated reading of assets within a store, i.e. ‘always on’ technology.

Additionally, the (logging/tracking of the) “on the go” transfer of atethered asset from one user (e.g. engineer) to another is notfacilitated with conventional systems.

A further problem is that suitable techniques do not exist foridentifying and/or locating tools that have been damaged and are nolonger fit for use or require repair.

A further problem is that of how to facilitate timely communication of arestock request to a controller for arranging restocking ofitems/assets.

A further problem is that suitable techniques do not exist for enablingcardless access by users to secure containers for retrieval of assetsfrom bins, in particular so as to facilitate unlocking by means of thesame device used for booking out items/assets from a bin.

A further problem is that known techniques do not enable two-waycommunications between an asset tag and a stock monitoring and/or assetsupply system.

A further problem is that of how to facilitate visual guidancepresentation to a user, for guiding them to an asset they have foundthrough an asset search.

SUMMARY

According to one embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided anasset tag adapted to be mounted to an asset. The asset tag comprises afirst component encoded with a first ID unique to the asset tag, thefirst component having a first wireless interface and being adapted totransmit first broadcast signals via said first wireless interface overa first range, the first broadcast signals including the first ID. Theasset tag comprises a user-actuatable button and processing circuitry,coupled to the button and to at least the first wireless interface. Theprocessing circuitry is configured for (i) determining whether apredetermined gesture has been performed by a user using the button and(ii) if the predetermined gesture has been performed, transmitting viathe first wireless interface to a wireless access point a restockmessage, the restock message including the first ID and indicating thatrestocking is required of assets corresponding to the first ID.

In one embodiment, determining whether a predetermined gesture has beenperformed comprises determining whether the button has been actuatedtwice within a first predetermined period.

In another embodiment, determining whether a predetermined gesture hasbeen performed comprises determining whether the button has beenactuated and held for a second predetermined period.

Preferably, the first predetermined period or the second predeterminedperiod has a duration of 0.5 to 4 seconds, more preferably 1 to 3seconds, and more preferably 1 to 2 seconds. The asset tag preferablyfurther comprises a visual indicator element, the visual indicatorelement being illuminated, at a given time, in a colour indicative ofcurrent status. Preferably, the visual indicator element is configuredto be illuminated, at a given time, in a respective colour correspondingto the current status being one of normal, restock pending and restockacknowledged and restock complete.

The asset tag may further comprise a second component encoded with asecond ID unique to the asset tag, the second component having a secondwireless interface and being adapted to transmit second broadcastsignals via said second wireless interface over a second range, thesecond broadcast signals including the second ID. Preferably, theprocessing circuitry is coupled to the second wireless interface andconfigured for transmitting the restock message via the first wirelessinterface and/or second wireless interface, the restock messageincluding the first ID and/or the second ID and indicating thatrestocking is required of assets corresponding to the first and/orsecond ID. Preferably, the first range and the second range aredifferent. Preferably, the first ID and the second ID are identical.

The first wireless interface may be one or more of (i) a transmit-onlywireless interface, (ii) adapted to transmit the first broadcast signalswith a first periodicity T1, (iii) a battery-powered wireless interfaceand (iv) a Bluetooth interface.

The second wireless interface may be one or more of (i) a wirelesstransceiver, (ii) adapted to transmit the second broadcast signals witha second periodicity T2, (iii) a battery-powered wireless interface,(iv) a passive wireless interface, (v) adapted to transmit, uponinterrogation by a corresponding reader device, a second broadcastsignal and (vi) a NFC interface.

The asset tag may further include a write switch coupled to theprocessing circuitry; wherein the processing circuitry is configured,upon actuation of the write switch, to (i) obtain the first ID from thefirst component and write or rewrite the first ID to a storage elementof the second component and (ii) turn off the second component. Theasset tag preferably further includes a user-actuatable push button on ahousing of the asset tag for actuating the write switch. Preferably, thefirst ID comprises a MAC address of the first component.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided ahard hat, bicycle or motorcycle helmet incorporating an asset tagaccording to any of the preceding paragraphs, the asset tag including anaccelerometer coupled to the processing circuitry; wherein theprocessing circuitry is configured to store time and/or amplitude datafor any impacts recorded by the accelerometer above a threshold impactlevel.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided amethod of configuring an asset tag having a passive wireless interfaceas a second wireless interface, the method comprising, duringmanufacture and/or assembly of the asset tag, (i) obtaining the first IDfrom the first component and writing or rewriting the first ID to astorage element of the second component and (ii) turning off the secondcomponent.

Preferably, the first ID comprises a MAC address of the first component.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided anasset supply arrangement, the asset supply arrangement comprising: oneor more bins for holding assets, the or each bin having on a visiblesurface thereof an asset tag as described herein; wherein the first IDand/or second ID of the asset tag is associated in a database of acentral control computer with the assets in a respective bin.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided anasset supply system, the asset supply system comprising: an asset supplyarrangement according to the preceding paragraph and a wireless accesspoint located within the first range or within the second range, thewireless access point being coupled for communication with a centralcontrol computer; wherein an asset tag on the asset supply arrangementis configured to transmit the restock message to the central controlcomputer via the wireless access point.

Preferably, the wireless access point is configured to (ii) receive therestock message transmitted by the first wireless interface and (ii)forward the restock message to the central control computer.

Preferably, the central control computer is configured to transmit arestock acknowledgement message to the asset tag or to the asset supplyarrangement via the wireless access point.

In one embodiment, the wireless access point is a reader device ortablet computer.

Preferably, the wireless access point comprises a short-range wirelesstransceiver and/or a long-range wireless transceiver.

Preferably, the short-range wireless transceiver comprises a NFC deviceand the long-range wireless transceiver comprises a Bluetooth device.

Preferably, the wireless access point is located in a storeroom in whichthe asset supply arrangement is located.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided adual-bin arrangement, the dual-bin arrangement comprising: a housing inwhich an upper space and a lower space are defined, both the upper spaceand the lower space being adapted for holding assets; an asset tag asdescribed herein provided on the housing; a divider configured to movebetween a first position, in which the divider forms a floor of theupper space, and a second position, in which the upper space and a lowerspace are contiguous, thereby enabling assets to fall from the upperspace to the lower space; and a switch located on the housing andconfigured to be activated as the divider moves out of the firstposition, thereby triggering the sending of a restock message to awireless access point for forwarding to a central control computer forordering a restock of the dual-bin arrangement.

Preferably, (i) the restock message is transmitted by a long-rangewireless interface of the switch to the wireless access point or (ii) arestock signal is transmitted to the tag, thereby triggering the sendingof a restock message by the first wireless interface of the tag to awireless access point.

The dual-bin arrangement may further comprise a flag member; wherein theflag member is movable between a latched position and an indicatingposition, the flag member being urged under bias into the indicatingposition; wherein the flag member is held in the latched position whenthe divider is in the first position; and wherein the flag member isreleased and movable under the bias as the divider moves out of thefirst position.

Preferably, the switch includes a reed switch and the flag memberincludes in or on a portion thereof a magnet; wherein the magnet acts tomaintain the reed switch closed when the flag member is held in thelatched position; and wherein the reed switch goes open as the flagmember is released and moves out of the latched position.

Preferably, the flag member is rotatable so as to be substantiallyhorizontal in the latched position and substantially vertical in theindicating position.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided asecure asset supply cabinet, comprising: an asset supply arrangementcontained in the asset supply cabinet, the asset supply arrangementcomprising one or more bins for holding assets; one or more programmablelocks, the or each programmable lock comprising processing circuitryand, coupled thereto, a short range wireless interface and at least onephysical lock actuatable by the processing circuitry; wherein theprocessing circuitry is configured for (i) receiving an unlock code froma portable wireless device of a user via the short range wirelessinterface, the unlock code being based at least in part on credentialsentered by the user on the portable wireless device, (ii) determining,based on one or more authentication and/or lock codes on theprogrammable lock, whether the unlock code is authenticated and (iii) ifthe unlock code is authenticated, actuating the or each physical lock tounlock the asset supply cabinet.

Preferably, the or each bin has on a visible surface thereof an assettag, the first and/or second ID of the asset tag being associated in adatabase of a central control computer with the assets in a respectivebin.

Preferably, wherein the short range wireless interface comprises a NFCinterface.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided amethod of tracking the location of an asset at a site using a wirelessportable device, the asset having mounted thereto an asset tag, theasset tag comprising a first component encoded with a first ID unique tothe asset tag, the first component having a first wireless interface andbeing adapted to transmit first broadcast signals via said firstwireless interface over a first range, the first broadcast signalsincluding the first ID, the method comprising: receiving a first userinput at the wireless portable device, the first user input selectingthe asset; receiving via the receiver one or more of said firstbroadcast signals; determining the signal strength of said one or moreof said first broadcast signals; deriving a measure based on the signalstrength; and displaying one or more graphical elements indicating atleast a distance from the wireless portable device to the asset.

Preferably, the one or more graphical elements comprise a ringstructure, the ring structure having a plurality of concentric rings.Preferably, each of the plurality of concentric rings in the ringstructure, when illuminated, has a respective, different colour. In oneembodiment, the number of concentric rings in the ring structure lies inthe range 2 to 8, 3 to 7, 4 to 6, or more preferably is 5.

The method preferably further comprises: determining which one ring ofthe plurality of rings is to be illuminated; wherein displaying one ormore graphical elements comprises displaying the ring structure withsaid one ring illuminated.

Preferably, determining which one ring of the plurality of rings is tobe illuminated comprises: determining, in respect of each of a pluralityof successively higher thresholds, each threshold corresponding to oneof a plurality of concentric rings in the ring structure, whether themeasure lies between that threshold and an immediately lower threshold.Preferably, the number of thresholds lies in the range 2 to 8, 3 to 7, 4to 6, or more preferably is 5.

In one embodiment, the wireless portable device includes anorientation-sensing device for providing an orientation signal; and themethod further comprises determining the current orientation of thewireless portable device based on said orientation signal; and the oneor more graphical elements include an orientation element indicating thecurrent orientation. Preferably, the orientation element comprises acompass.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided awireless portable device for tracking the location of an asset at asite, the asset having mounted thereto an asset tag, the asset tagcomprising a first component encoded with a first ID unique to the assettag, the first component having a first wireless interface and beingadapted to transmit first broadcast signals via said first wirelessinterface over a first range, the first broadcast signals including thefirst ID, the wireless portable device comprising: a receiver; aprocessor, coupled to the receiver, the processor being configured for:receiving a first user input at the wireless portable device, the firstuser input selecting the asset; receiving via the receiver one or moreof said first broadcast signals; determining the signal strength of saidone or more of said first broadcast signals; deriving a measure based onthe signal strength; and displaying one or more graphical elementsindicating at least a distance from the wireless portable device to theasset.

Preferably, wherein the one or more graphical elements comprise a ringstructure, the ring structure having a plurality of concentric rings.Preferably, each of the plurality of concentric rings in the ringstructure, when illuminated, has a respective, different colour.Preferably, the number of concentric rings in the ring structure lies inthe range 2 to 8, 3 to 7, 4 to 6, or more preferably is 5.

Preferably, the processor is further configured for: determining whichone ring of the plurality of rings is to be illuminated; whereindisplaying one or more graphical elements comprises displaying the ringstructure with said one ring illuminated.

Preferably, determining which one ring of the plurality of rings is tobe illuminated comprises: determining, in respect of each of a pluralityof successively higher thresholds, each threshold corresponding to oneof a plurality of concentric rings in the ring structure, whether themeasure lies between that threshold and an immediately lower threshold.Preferably, the number of thresholds lies in the range 2 to 8, 3 to 7, 4to 6, or more preferably is 5.

In one embodiment, the wireless portable device further includes anorientation-sensing device for providing an orientation signal; and theprocessor is further configured for determining the current orientationof the wireless portable device based on said orientation signal; andthe one or more graphical elements include an orientation elementindicating the current orientation. Preferably, the orientation elementcomprises a compass.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided awireless portable device comprising a short-range (e.g. NFC) and/orlong-range (e.g. Bluetooth) wireless transceiver, a display, an inputdevice and processing circuitry, coupled to the short-range and/orlong-range wireless transceiver, display, and input device; wherein theprocessing circuitry is configured for (i) receiving one or more userinputs via the input device, the one or more user inputs identifying anasset, a tag ID being associated in a database with the asset; and (ii)transmitting a search message to a wireless access point, the searchmessage incorporating at least the tag ID.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided anasset tracking system for use with the wireless portable device of thepreceding paragraph, the asset tracking system comprising a wirelessaccess point coupled in a network to a central control computer, thecentral control computer storing at least a copy of the database, thedatabase storing, for each tag ID associated therewith, a location IDfor a location at which an asset corresponding to the tag ID is storedand/or available; wherein the wireless access point is configured toreceive the search message and incorporate a location ID of the wirelessaccess point in the search message; and wherein the central controlcomputer is configured for (i) receiving the search message, and (ii)querying the database to extract a location ID based on the tag ID.

Preferably, the asset tracking system is further configured fortransmitting, by the central control computer, an illumination messageincorporating the tag ID to a wireless access point associated with thelocation ID.

Preferably, the wireless access point is configured for forwarding, inresponse to receipt of the illumination message, the illuminationmessage to a tag associated with a tag ID in the search message via ashort-range and/or long-range wireless transceiver of the wirelessaccess point, the illumination message being configured to command thetag associated with a tag ID to illuminate a visual indicator elementthereof.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided anasset tag adapted to be mounted to an asset and configured for use withthe asset tracking system according to the three preceding paragraphs;wherein: the asset tag comprises an asset tag as described herein;wherein the asset tag further comprises a visual indicator element, thevisual indicator element being illuminated, at a given time, in a colourindicative of current status; wherein the processing circuitry of theasset tag is configured for (i) receiving the illumination message viathe first wireless interface and/or second wireless interface and (ii)in response, illuminating the visual indicator element in apredetermined colour to facilitate finding by the user.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure, there is provided awireless portable device or server, the wireless portable device orserver incorporating a processor, memory and at least one communicationsinterface, the processor being configured to carry out any of the abovemethods set out in any of the appended claims or as described herein.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure there is provided arecordable, rewritable or recorded medium having recorded or storedthereon machine readable data defining or transformable intoinstructions for execution by processing circuitry and corresponding toat least the steps of the methods set out in any of the appended claims.

According to another embodiment of this disclosure there is provided aserver computer incorporating a communications device and a memorydevice and being adapted for transmission on demand or otherwise of datadefining or transformable into instructions for execution by processingcircuitry and corresponding to at least the steps of any of the appendedclaims.

Implementation of the processing on the PDA (which is e.g. phone, tabletor other portable computing device) with NFC-RFID (Near FieldCommunication Radio Frequency Identification capability) and Bluetoothmay be by means of an application that is downloaded to the PDA. The PDAmay be linked in real time through 3G/4G/5G to cloud-based centralcomputer (CC) software. The CC software may be an enterprise-wide assetor indirect materials management platform.

The (composite) asset tag disclosed herein is a unique asset andinventory management electronic tag combining both NFC (Near FieldCommunication) technology and short range wireless communicationtechnology (e.g. Bluetooth) and in some circumstances RFID technology.This can be achieved using a combined Bluetooth NFC chip or simplycombining a Bluetooth tag with an NFC tag but encoding the NFC tag withthe Bluetooth identifier and adding an RFID tag.

The (composite) asset tag disclosed herein allows the followingadvantages:

1. The NFC component of the composite tag can be encoded with theBluetooth (Short range wireless communication technology identifier(Media Access Control)) MAC address. The benefit is that itsignificantly speeds up the process of setting up the Bluetooth tags bya user making it a more convenient and user friendly processparticularly for multiple tag set up for multiple assets with a mobileNFC capable device.2. The NFC component of the composite tag allows the control of assetsto a home store or van within a cloud based software using an NFCcapable mobile device without the requirement to read the Bluetoothsignal into the software or pair the tag with a mobile using a button onthe Bluetooth tag (the traditional method).3. Traditionally, only up to six Bluetooth tags can be paired with onemobile device. The NFC component of the composite tag removes therequirement for ‘pairing’ (two-way communication requirement) as thesystem is only listening for specific Bluetooth signals and thereforeallows “virtual” tethering (within asset tracking software) ofsubstantially more composite tags, and therefore assets, to a mobiledevice.4. The additional benefit of NFC as the identifier (and avoiding using abutton to pair the tag to the smart mobile device) is that the compositetag can be made to be waterproof and more cost effective. Theconventional addition of a button makes waterproofing extremelydifficult.5. Another benefit of NFC component of the composite tag is that itincreases the life of the battery, as the composite tag can work as abeacon-only, utilising one-way communication from the tag to the mobiledevice. I.e. the composite tag does not need to listen to any signalsgoing to it and does not need to be ‘paired’. This one-way communicationincreases the life in service of the composite tag between batterychanges. With a button on a Bluetooth tag, it has to communicate in bothdirections with a mobile smart device.6. The composite tag is also much more secure: anyone can listen to thecomposite tag as it only broadcasts. Effectively the composite tagcannot be hacked and settings changed, as no-one can connect to theBluetooth component of the composite tag.7. The NFC component of the composite tag allows the scanning of thecomposite tag to record data (about the asset, e.g. part number, serialnumber, description, calibration dates, inspection checks, trainingrecords of the inspector being up to date, information PDF's, how to usevideos, the ability to photograph parts or all of the asset, tohighlight issues on inspection etc.) to a cloud based software.8. The NFC component of the composite tag allows the booking of aparticular asset/tool to a job. E.g. an engineer takes a drill and anangle grinder from several assets on their vehicle. These can be bookedto the job, so it records them going on to a particular site. When theengineer gets back to the vehicle he can scan them back onto the vehicleor home store. This gives a record and audit trail of the time specifictools are allocated to a job.9. The Bluetooth or short range wireless communication component of thecomposite tag allows the composite tag to be tracked using signalstrength by the Bluetooth network on a mobile device with Bluetoothcapability.10. The cloud based (asset monitoring/tracking) software allows theBluetooth network of the whole community to track specific assets/tools,i.e. with anyone with their Bluetooth and PDA application enabled.11. The Bluetooth and RFID element of the composite tag allows readertiles—which can fit onto walls and into suspended ceilings using powerover Ethernet and that have readers for both the Bluetooth and RFIDelement—to read both elements of the composite tags. The tiles candetect the proximity of passive RFID tagged assets (up to six metersradius) and Bluetooth tagged assets up to 50 meters. This allowsautomated reading of assets within a store, i.e. ‘always on’ technology,and when they are booked to an operative via a PDA application using theNFC component, they are automatically allocated to the operative andtheir vehicle (using Vehicle registration and operatives clock cardusing inventory management software).12. The composite tag placed on an asset can be NFC scanned to tetherthe asset to a mobile device using the Bluetooth (short range wirelesscommunication technology.)13. The composite tags of a specific asset can be scanned by anotherengineer to show an asset/tool transfer from one engineer to another inthe cloud based (asset monitoring/tracking) software. This alsoautomatically tethers the Bluetooth component of the composite tag tothe new engineer's smart device; this allows the lending of toolsbetween operatives to be a seamless process.14. The Bluetooth and NFC components together ensure two ways of readingan asset into the cloud based (asset monitoring/tracking) software—apassive method by scanning by a user and an active Bluetooth methodwhere the smart mobile device automatically reads the Bluetooth signal.This also means asset management can still be carried out even when thebattery is depleted in the Bluetooth tag and requires changing. A NFCreader uses the battery of the mobile device to excite and read the tag.15. The NFC component of the composite tag can be scanned and softwareused to highlight in cloud based software the composite tags thatrequire battery changeout.16. The NFC component allows the recording in the cloud based (assetmonitoring/tracking) software of tools that have been damaged and are nolonger fit for use or require repair.17. The Bluetooth component of the composite tag can have sensors builtin to record: temperature, humidity, pressure, motion (accelerometer),etc., which can record the start and stop time of an asset in useallocated to a particular user for white finger monitoring and recordthe physical state/condition of an asset.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described in detail, by way ofexample, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 (PRIOR ART) is a high-level block diagram illustrating a knowndistributed BLE sensor system aggregated over wireless networks;

FIG. 2 (PRIOR ART) is a more detailed block diagram illustrating a BLEserver of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 (PRIOR ART) is a more detailed block diagram illustrating a userdevice (PDA) of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 (PRIOR ART) is a more detailed block diagram illustrating a BLEdevice of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 (PRIOR ART) is a high-level flow chart illustrating a method ofaggregating a distributed BLE sensor system over wireless networks;

FIG. 6(a) shows an external perspective view of the housing of acomposite tag according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG. 6(b)shows the internal hardware of the tag of FIG. 6(a), showing a firstsight of a circuit board; FIG. 6(c) shows the hardware of FIG. 6(b),from the opposite side of the circuit board; FIG. 6(d) is a schematicblock diagram of the internal hardware of the composite tag of FIGS.6(a) to 6(c);

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an asset tracking database, showing theassociation of users and tag IDs of tags tethered to the users;

FIG. 8(a) shows a stores arrangement or asset supply arrangement,generally designated 1100, according to an embodiment of the invention,and FIG. 8(b) shows the use of a PDA 130 operated by a user inretrieving and returning assets;

FIG. 9(a)-9(d) are examples of flow charts showing processing andcommunication steps involved in restocking of the asset supplyarrangement 1100 of FIG. 8(a), according to an embodiment;

FIGS. 10(a)-10(d) show an asset supply arrangement 1100′ affording“Restock request” message transmission, according to another embodiment;

FIGS. 11(a)-11(d) are examples of flowcharts showing processing andcommunication steps involved in restocking of the asset supplyarrangement 1100 of FIGS. 10(a)-10(d), according to an embodiment;

FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b) show in front view and side view, respectively, asecure asset supply cabinet 1200 according to one embodiment of theinvention, FIG. 12(c) shows a secure asset supply cabinet 1200′according to another embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 12(d) is aschematic diagram of a programmable lock used in the cabinet of FIG.12(a) or 12(c);

FIGS. 13(a)-13(c) are examples of flowcharts of the process for a userto obtain access to the secure asset supply cabinet 1200/1200′, and forperforming issue, return and/or restock functions using their PDA 130,according to an embodiment;

FIG. 14 illustrates the process for providing graphical indications tothe user of a wireless portable device for locating an asset, accordingto one embodiment;

FIGS. 15(a)-15(f) show examples of user interface views during theprocess of FIG. 14; and

FIGS. 16(a) to 21(b) show a dual bin arrangement according to anotherembodiment, FIGS. 16(a), 17(a), 18(a), 19(a), 20(a) and 21(a) inperspective view and FIGS. 16(b), 17(b), 18(b), 19(b), 20(b) and 21(b)in side view, at various stages of operation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following, like numerals will be used to denote like elements.Unless indicated otherwise, any individual design features, componentsor steps mentioned herein may be used in combination with any otherfeatures, components or steps disclosed herein.

FIG. 1 is a high-level block diagram illustrating a distributed BLEsensor system 100 aggregated over wireless networks. The system 100comprises a BLE server 110, an access point 120A, a community userdevice 102 and an enterprise user device 104, coupled to a network 101preferably over wired connections. A user device (sensor) 130A iswirelessly coupled to the access point 120A over a Wi-Fi connection, andis wirelessly coupled to a BLE device (asset) 140A over a Bluetoothconnection. Additional network components can also be part of the system100, such as firewalls, virus scanners, routers, switches, applicationservers, databases, as well as additional controllers, access points,access switches, controllers, stations, and the like. The networkcomponents can be implemented as hardware, software, or a combination ofboth.

In an embodiment, there are multiple different sensors in the system100A. The more sensors reporting sensor events from different locations,the larger the coverage area for asset tracking. The sensors belong toindependent and unassociated users. Different sensors can be differentdevices, the same devices from different manufacturers, or identicaldevices. An asset can be picked up by different sensors at differentlocations, the same sensor at different locations, or different sensorsat the same locations. In some cases, sensor events are essentiallyrandom events because there is no relationship between the sensor andthe asset other than both being associated generally with the system100A (e.g., community asset tracking). In other cases, sensor events areplanned (e.g., heartbeat monitoring).

The BLE server 110 receives and analyses sensor events from the userdevices 120 coming into contact with BLE devices 130. One embodiment canformat sensor event data in a data portion of a frame including a uniqueidentifier, a time/date stamp, a location, and any additionalinformation for an implementation. Raw sensor event data is stored in asearchable format for later reference. Business rules can be applied toraw data to determine aggregate sensor data for the system 100 as awhole or just a particular user. Real-time alerts or notifications aresent out based on certain triggers, such as when an asset is found, anasset is in danger, a location has changed, a connection heartbeat islost, a certain number of a set of assets have reached a predeterminedcondition, and the like.

The BLE server 110 can be implemented in any of the computer devicesdiscussed herein, a personal computer, a smart telephone, a serverblade, a virtual storage network, or software as a service (SaaS), forexample.

The access point 120A serves as a gateway to the network 101 fortransmitting sensor events to the BLE sensor 110. Typically, the userdevice 130A is associated with a BSSID assigned to the user access point120A. Alternatively, a router, repeater or other network component canprovide Wi-Fi access to the network 101.

The user device 130A is a Bluetooth-enabled sensor that readsinformation from BLE devices 130 within radio range. For example, byenabling Bluetooth networking on a smart telephone, asset scanningoccurs periodically as a user moves to different locations. Beacons aredetected and include a unique identifier along with other data. In anembodiment, BLE devices 140A considered assets within the system 100Aare assigned unique identifiers having a recognizable prefix (e.g.,first four characters are common for the system 100A). The user device130A locally processes beacon data by adding time/data stamp andlocation information. In some cases, the user device 130A applies localrules to analyse data. One rule locally monitors heartbeats. Anotherrule identifies an asset sought by the system 100 and, in response,pairs with the BLE device 140A to deliver data or interrogate for data,as discussed further below. Pairing can be limited to certaintransactions and a certain amount of time because some sensors onlysupport one Bluetooth pairing at a time.

The user device 130A comprises a mobile or stationary computerizeddevice. The user device 130A can be a smart telephone, a tablet, aphablet, a personal computer, a server, or any other computing device(e.g., see FIG. 8). An embodiment includes a Wi-Fi radio and one or moreBluetooth radios. A software program or mobile app can be downloaded toand executed on the user device 130A, or be integrated to an operatingsystem.

The BLE devices 130 advertise a presence over a Bluetooth channel topass information to the BLE sensor server 110. Some BLE devices 130 haveintegrated Bluetooth capability while others are retrofitted. In onecase, BLE tag comprises a small sticker with a (low-powered) Bluetoothtransmitter, a small circuit, and a thin profile battery is attached toan item. The low power consumption can allow a battery life of months oryears, and when the battery runs out, the sticker is detached, thrownaway, and replaced. A security module can encrypt broadcast data. Sometags on stationary assets can be programmed with a fixed location fortransmission to sensors that do not have integrated location technology(e.g., no GPS). Asset types can be encoded in unique identifiers (e.g.,certain prefixes reserved).

In one embodiment, assets operate in a dual mode to also perform sensorfunctionality. In more detail, an asset can collect sensor events fromother nearby assets and report to a sensor. For example, an asset placedat an intersection can collect sensor events from BLE enabled vehiclesthat drive by the intersection and then report data during its owninteraction with a sensor.

FIG. 2 is a more detailed block diagram illustrating a BLE server 110 ofFIG. 1. The BLE server 110 may be in practice implemented by one or moreservers, and may comprise a hosted (cloud/based) solution. Such a BLEserver 110, collection or network of servers or hosted (cloud/based)solution are referred to herein variously as “central control computer(CCC)”, “central control system (CCS)” and the like. The BLE server 110comprises a user interface/APIs 210, an asset database 220, a rulesdatabase 230, a sensor analysis engine 240, a rewards management module240, and a notification module 250, among other server software andhardware. Other examples can have different components. Further, theindividual components can be locally stored and executed, be remotelyexecuted by a software as a service, or be separate physical servers.

The user interface/APIs 210 provide an interaction portal for enterpriseusers and community users to log on to the BLE server 110. Interactionscan be provided through a search engine that can search general types ofassets and related movement and use data. Also, user profiles canprovide private interactions and secure data. Enterprise users canindividually register or upload a group of assets and also configurerules for the assets. In another embodiment, enterprise users can searchevent data, set analysis parameters, and configure heart beat monitoringand asset tracking. Additionally, external processes can interact withthe BLTE server 110 utilizing the user interface/APIs 210. APIs forsensors can be publicly available, or can be provided to partners on amore limited basis.

The asset database 220 can store registered assets associated withspecific users and preferences. As sensor events occur, analysis resultsare determined by the sensor analysis engine 240. A relational databaseor table formats data into a searchable form. A rules database 230stores rules applied against the registered assets. Some rules aregeneral and are preconfigured for asset tracking, lost and found, or anyof the specific case uses. Some rules are customized for a particularuser, for a particular asset type, for a particular movement behaviour,and the like.

FIG. 3 is a more detailed block diagram illustrating a user device 120(generically referring to the access points 120A-C) of FIG. 1, accordingto an embodiment. The user device 120 comprises a Bluetooth sensor app310, a Wi-Fi/cellular radio 320, and a Bluetooth radio 330.

FIG. 4 is a more detailed block diagram illustrating a BLE device 130(generically referring to the BLE devices 130A-D) of FIG. 1, accordingto an embodiment. The BLE device 130 comprises a Bluetooth tag 410, aBluetooth device app 420, and a Bluetooth radio 430.

FIG. 5 is a high-level flow chart illustrating a method 500 ofaggregating a distributed BLE sensor system over wireless networks,according to an embodiment. The order of steps and grouping of functionsin each step are only examples of many possible variations.

A user profile is created (step 510). An asset list associated with theuser profile is uploaded and rules are configured (step 520). An item isenabled as a BLE asset (step 530). To do so, a BLE tag and/or softwareare set up at the BLE asset. Scan events for BLE assets are reported bydistributed BLE sensors (step 540), as described in more detail below.Scan events are analysed using business rules by a BLE server (step550), also as described below in more detail. Notifications and/orreports are sent based on the analysis (step 560).

In implementing the present invention, techniques disclosed in US2016/0105762 A1 may be used as appropriate, except as describedotherwise hereinafter.

FIG. 6(a) shows an external perspective view of the housing 604 of acomposite tag 602 according to an embodiment of the invention. Thehousing 604 may be made of any suitable plastics material and formed bymoulding techniques that are well known in the art. The housing 604 maybe moulded as a unitary housing, or may be formed by an upper housingportion 606 and a lower housing portion 608 which are joined by suitableplastics welding techniques at joint 610.

In embodiments, the composite tag 602 includes a push button ormomentary switch (not shown), operable by a user. Preferably, in orderto actuate the switch, the upper housing portion 606 is axiallyslidable/movable relative to the lower housing portion 608, i.e. so asto act as a push button. Alternatively, ring surface portion 612 orcentral surface portion 616 is formed of touch sensitive material, or isformed of a resilient material allowing actuation of the switch beneathit by pressing. Further, in embodiments, the composite tag 602 includes,on the housing 604, a visual indicator element 618 that is selectivelyilluminable in one of a plurality of predetermined colours, e.g. red,green, blue, purple, etc. In one embodiment, the visual indicatorelement 618 comprises one or more LEDs (not shown) of different colours.In embodiments, the colour of the visual indicator element 618 indicatesstatus (e.g. “restock required”) at any given time of a bin or containerfor assets/inventory to which the composite tag 602 is mounted, asdescribed in further detail below.

FIG. 6(b) shows the internal hardware of the tag of FIG. 6(a), showing afirst side of a circuit board 700. The composite tag 602 includes abattery 702 for powering a Bluetooth™ component, or for pairing aBluetooth component and an NFC component, which will be described infurther detail below.

FIG. 6(c) shows the hardware of FIG. 6(b), from the opposite side of thecircuit board 700. On this side of the circuit board 802 are variouselectronic components 804 making up the composite tag 602, as will bedescribed in more detail hereinafter.

FIG. 6(d) is a schematic block diagram of the internal hardware of thecomposite tag 602 of FIGS. 6(a) to 6(c). In accordance with anembodiment of the invention, the composite tag 602 comprises a Bluetoothcomponent 140 and an NFC component 902. The Bluetooth component 140 andthe NFC component 902 may be fabricated as separate components andcombined onto the same package (circuit board 700), or may be fabricatedas an integrated device (chip) (not shown).

Within Bluetooth component 140, CPU 904 is interoperable with memorydevices 906, 908 and 910. Further, inputs from the user can be received(by touching/pushing the housing portion 606, i.e. the front of thehousing 604; see FIG. 6(a)) so as to actuate switch 903, which iscoupled to CPU 904. Additional interfaces and/or components 912-920 arealso coupled to and interoperable with CPU 904 in a conventional manner,as will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art. A clock signal isprovided to the components by clock generator 922, and power is providedthereto by battery 702. Low energy modem 924 and RF block 926, operatingunder the control of CPU 904, form a Bluetooth wireless interface forthe transmission of Bluetooth signals complying with the Bluetoothstandard. Preferably, the latter is a two-way wireless interface, but incertain embodiments may be a one-way (transmit only or receive-only)interface. In accordance with embodiments of the invention, thisBluetooth wireless interface is operable in broadcast mode only (i.e. itis incapable of receiving).

The NFC component 902 includes NFC tag logic 930 interoperable withmemory devices 932 and 934. An NFC analogue block 936, in use under thecontrol of NFC tag logic 930, provides an NFC wireless interfacebroadcasting, in use, NFC signals complying with the NFC standard.Preferably, the latter is a two-way wireless interface, but in certainembodiments may be a one-way (transmit only or receive-only) interface.

In accordance with embodiments of the invention, both the Bluetoothcomponent 140 and the NFC component 902 are encoded with an identifier(tag ID) unique to the tag 602, and the IDs for the Bluetooth component140 and the NFC component 902 are the same.

The Bluetooth wireless interface of Bluetooth component 140 is operableto broadcast Bluetooth signals at intervals, with a periodicity T1. Inembodiments, as well as including the tag ID, the Bluetooth signalsinclude measurements detected by temperature, humidity, pressure and/ormotion (accelerometer) sensors (not shown) which form part of theBluetooth component 140 in embodiments of the invention.

The NFC wireless interface of NFC component 902, in use, may broadcastNFC wireless signals including the tag ID under battery power. In anyevent, NFC component 902 is operable as a passive component, and may, inuse, be interrogated by an NFC reader (not shown), in response to whichthe NFC wireless interface broadcasts the NFC wireless signals includingthe tag ID.

An issue with some implementations is that the short-range (e.g. NFC)component is always on in order that an asset can be addressed with ashort-range (e.g. NFC) reader on an app of the PDA 130. This can placesa significant drain on the battery and shorten the battery life.

According to an embodiment, during the manufacturing/assembly process ofthe tag 602 the short-range (e.g. NFC) component writes the ID (e.g. MACaddress) of the long-range (e.g. BLE) component to a passive tagcontained in the tag 602 dual bin arrangement and then turns off.

In another embodiment, alternatively or additionally, a write button canalso be added on the tag 602 so the short-range (e.g. NFC) component isactivated to write/rewrite to the short-range (e.g. NFC) passive tag andthen turn off.

This increases the read range/strength of the composite tag and/or dualbin arrangement and means there is no drain on the battery when in useand there is still the flexibility to activate the passive tag again ifit was not written to the first time. This provides an important benefitas it solves or reduces battery drain issues while maintaining animproved addressable functionality and still uses the short-range (e.g.NFC) component for initiation within the long-range (e.g. BLE) module.

In another embodiment, a tag 602 is incorporated in a hard hat, bicycleor motorcycle helmet. This enables the tag 602 to record any significantimpacts to or drops of the hat/helmet with the integrated accelerometer.In this way, the user may know whether they should purchase a new one,to ensure full protection.

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an asset tracking/management database(also referred to herein as “asset database”) 220, showing theassociation of users and tag IDs of tags tethered to the users. It canbe seen that associated with each user ID 1002, 1004, 1006 are one ormore tag IDs generally designated as 1008. Uniquely associated with eachtag ID 1008 is an asset ID 1010. There may also be provided in assetdatabase 220 a description 1012 of the asset corresponding to the assetID 1010. In the particular embodiment illustrated, a first user 1006(Clarke_A) has one asset (BO_DRILL 17) associated with him, whereby asingle tag ID 1008 (ID 005) is tethered to that user 1006. A second user1004 has two tag IDs 1008 (ID 002 and ID 016) tethered to his wirelessportable device (PDA) 130. However, the first listed user 1002 (Smith_J)has eight tag IDs 1008 tethered to his PDA. That is, in the latter case,a large number of Bluetooth IDs (BTID) are virtually associated with theuser (PDA) 1002.

FIG. 8(a) shows a stores arrangement or asset supply arrangement,generally designated 1100, according to an embodiment of the invention.The asset supply arrangement 1100 comprises a plurality of bins 1102(here, eighteen) for holding stock items/assets/inventory (not shown)for retrieval or return by a user, and which periodically need to berestocked. For each bin 1102, on a front surface 1104 is mounted acomposite tag 602 as described hereinabove, including a visual indicatorelement 618. FIG. 8(b) shows the use of a PDA 130 operated by a user inretrieving and returning assets, the PDA 130 including a short-range(e.g. NFC) interface enabling interaction and communication betweencomposite tag 602 and PDA 130 when the latter is “tapped” on the former,as well as a (e.g. touchscreen) user interface.

For example, in relation to the assets held in a respective bin 1102corresponding to composite tag 602, such techniques may be used as aredescribed in published UK patent application no. GB2550326—for (i)adding an asset to the asset tracking database of FIG. 7, (ii) forsetting up a tether between an asset and a user in the asset trackingdatabase of FIG. 7 and (iii) recording the transfer of an asset from afirst user to a second user in the asset tracking database of FIG. 7 ofthat published UK patent application.

As mentioned above, periodically restocking of bins 1102 is required,and it can be beneficial for this to be performed as soon as possible—toimprove productivity and site performance, to expedite repairs andmaintenance and even prevent accidents. A problem exists in how tofacilitate the notification to a central control computer of the needfor a restock of assets in a given bin 1102. In accordance withembodiments of the invention, techniques for such restocknotification/alerting are provided.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing processing and communication stepsinvolved in restocking of the asset supply arrangement 1100 of FIG. 8,according to an embodiment, i.e. (a) at a composite tag 602, (b) at awireless access point 120, (c) at a central control computer (BLEserver) 110 and (d) at a user device (PDA) 130. The wireless accesspoint 120 may comprise a Bluetooth enabled access point, and/or maycomprise a wireless and/or Bluetooth enabled tablet computer or fixedreader tile device. More particularly, the wireless access point 120 maycomprise a Bluetooth enabled Android access point.

In this embodiment, a user is able (e.g. upon seeing that they haveremoved the last asset from a bin 1102, or upon arriving to find noassets remaining in the desired bin 1102), by pushing button 903 oncomposite tag 602 twice within a predetermined period (or anothergesture, such as a push and hold for a predetermined period), to triggerthe sending of a “Restock request” message by the composite tag 602 tothe central control computer (BLE server) 110. The message may be sentvia the wireless access point 120 and/or via one or more furthercomposite tags 602 functioning in a mesh network.

In the following, where reference is made to a hardware entityperforming a task, it will be appreciated that this is implemented,where appropriate, by processing circuitry of that entity. Further, ineach of the flow charts, it will be appreciated that, where appropriate,acts or blocks may be performed in a different order, and not all actsor blocks are necessarily essential, but depend on the functionalitybeing provided.

Returning to FIG. 9(a), initially, the tag 602 waits for acommunications (comms) input from one of its interfaces (block 901). Ifsuch input is received, it is determined what type of input is received(block 902).

If it is determined at block 902 that the PDA (i.e. PDA's App) hasscanned (the tag 602), the tag 602 sends the Tag ID via short rangeinterface (e.g. NFC) to the PDA (App) (block 903). Next, it isdetermined (block 904) whether the PDA (App) has sent a Setup or RestockComplete message. If it is a Setup message, no action is required as theTag ID is already broadcast, as indicated at block 909.

If on the other hand, it is determined at block 904 that the PDA (App)has sent a Restock Complete message, then the tag 602 Receive valid NFCrestock complete message from App (block 905), Set Status to RestockComplete (block 906) and Set Status to Normal after a set time (e.g.midnight) (block 907).

Returning to block 902, if the communication input received is that abutton on the tag 602 has been pushed once (for Status), processingproceeds to block 910 where a determination is made as to the currentstatus. In this embodiment, if the status is Restock Pending, the tag602 lights its visual indicator elements (e.g. LEDs) to a firstpredetermined colour (e.g. orange) for a predetermined period of time,e.g. 10 seconds (block 911). If the status is Restock Acknowledged, thevisual indicator elements are lit by the tag 602 in a secondpredetermined colour (e.g. purple) for the predetermined period (block912). If, on the other hand, the status is Restock Complete, the tag 602lights the visual indicator elements to a third predetermined colour(e.g. green) for the predetermined period (block 913). Finally, if thestatus is Normal, the tag 602 lights the visual indicator elements to afourth predetermined colour (e.g. blue) for the predetermined period(block 914).

In embodiments, the status indications by the visual indicator elementmay be described as follows.

-   -   No lit LED's signify that it is inactive. Pressing the button        once will activate the LED to display procurement status.    -   A quick flashing orange LED indicates that the access point 120        has been activated through pressing the tag twice. The tag        transmits a reorder signal to the CCC 110.    -   A slow flashing purple LED indicates that the tag has received a        message from the CCC 110, acknowledging that it has received the        reorder message.    -   To replenish the bin the restocker scans the NFC component of        the tag and selects restock in an app on his PDA 130. A green        flashing LED indicates restocked and normal status.    -   The LED automatically flashes blue to show a normal status at        midnight on the day of a restock. The app can also flash a tag        blue when the bin/item is being searched.

Referring to FIG. 9(a) (Continued), if it is determined at block 902that the communication input received corresponds to a button on the tag602 being pushed twice (for Replenishment), processing proceeds to block915 where a determination is made as to the current status. If it isdetermined that the status is Restock Pending or Restock Acknowledged,then no action is required as the tag 602 has already requested arestock (indicated at block 916), and if the user presses the buttonrepeatedly, the visual indicator elements are turned off for apredetermined time period (block 917).

If, however, the status determined at block 915 is Normal or RestockComplete, then the tag sets the status to Restock Pending (block 918)and sends its Tag ID and Restock Pending status to the wireless (e.g.Bluetooth) access point 120 (block 919).

If the communication input is determined at block 902 to be sensor data(including, e.g., battery level), then the tag acquires thesensor/battery information at timed intervals or in response to an event(block 920). Then, the tag 602 sends its Tag ID and sensor data to thewireless access point 120 (block 921).

If the communication input is determined at block 902 to be a messagereceived from the wireless access point 120, a determination is made(block 922) as to what the message is that has been received. If themessage is a firmware update message, then the firmware is updated atblock 923. If the message is a message to light or illuminate a visualindicator element (e.g. LED), the visual indicator element is lit by thetag 602 in a colour corresponding to the current status for apredetermined period at block 924. If the message received is a RestockAcknowledged message, the tag updates the tag status to RestockAcknowledged (block 925.

Referring to FIG. 9(b), this shows the processing carried out at the(wireless) access point 120. First, the access point 120 waits for acommunications input (block 926). If a communication is received, adetermination is made (block 927) as to whether the communication(message) is from the CCS 110 (e.g. via the internet) or from the tag602 (e.g. via Bluetooth). If the message is from the tag 602, the accesspoint 120 receives the Tag ID, sensor data and restock status (block928). Next, the Tag ID, sensor data (reading) and status update are sentto the CCS 110 (e.g. via the internet).

If, on the other hand, it is determined at block 927 that the message isfrom the CCS 110, a determination is made at block 930 as to what typeof message has been received. If the received message indicates (as wellas Tag ID) that the status is Restock Acknowledged, then the statusupdate (Restock Acknowledged) is sent to the tag 602 (e.g. viaBluetooth). If, on the other hand, it is determined at block 930 thatthe message is an illumination message (i.e. commanding the lighting ofa visual indicator element), then the access point 120 sends theillumination message (light LED command) to the tag 602 (e.g. viaBluetooth) (block 932).

Referring to FIG. 9(c), this shows the processing carried out at thecentral control system (CCS) 110. Initially (block 933), the CCS 110waits for a communications input. If a communication is received, ade-termination is made (block 934) by the CCS 110 as to what functionhas been performed. If the function is to add a user, part or location,then the user, part and/or location are added or amended by the CCS 110(e.g. via internet browser) (block 935). Next, the user and/or parts(and possibly location) are added to (or amended in) the appropriatedatabase at block 936; the latter may include a parts data-base 937, ausers database 938 and/or a location database 939. Once the parts/usersinformation has been added to the database(s), the user, parts and/orlocation data is sent to the PDA (App), e.g. via the internet, either attimed intervals or when a synchronisation (sync) is requested from thePDA (App) (block 940).

Returning to block 934, if it is there determined that the function thathas been performed is the receipt of a message from the wireless(Bluetooth) access point 120, then at block 941 a location field isupdated (in location database 939) with status and/or sensor information(reading). Next, a determination is made by the CCS 110 as to whetherthe tag status is Restock Pending (block 942). If the status is notRestock Pending, then the process ends.

If, on the other hand, the status is determined at block 942 to beRestock Pending, then the CCS 110 sends the Tag ID and status RestockConfirmed to the wireless access point (block 943). Then, the CCS 110places the part, location and fixed Reorder Quantity for the part on aRestock Report (block 944), which is output at block 945.

Referring to FIG. 9(c) (Continued), if it is determined at block 934that the function that has been performed is a receipt of a message fromthe PDA (App) 130, then processing proceeds to block 946. Here, adetermination is made as to what type of message has been received. Ifthe message is a New Tag Setup message, then at block 947 a locationreference (location ID), Tag ID and/or part assigned are received. Next,the Tag ID, (assigned) part number are added to the relevant location(entry) in a location table in the location database 939 (block 948).

If at block 946 it is determined that the received message is a RestockComplete message, then at block 949 a field in the location database 939is updated to flag a bin or part with the tag number (Tag ID) that hasbeen set to status Normal. Then, the part, location and fixed ReorderQuantity are re-moved for this part from the Restock Report based on thepart and location (ID) received from the location database 939 (block950).

If it is determined at block 946 that the received message is anillumination message (e.g. to light a visual indicator element) of a tag602, then an illumination message (request) with the appropriate Tag IDis sent to the wireless access point (bock 951).

Referring to FIG. 9(d), this shows the processes carried out at the PDA130. On the left-hand side in FIG. 9(d) are illustrated the steps forsyncing from the CCS process. In particular, the sync process istriggered at block 952 and a request is sent by the PDA 130 to the CCSto request the latest data (part, user and/or location) (block 953). Thenew part, location and/or user data is received from the CCS at block954 and may be written to a parts database 937′, location database 939′and/or users database 938′, mirroring the corresponding databases937-939 of the CCS 110.

Referring to the right-hand side in FIG. 9(d), first a sync isinitialised from the CCS 110 at block 955. As noted, a sync may alsoautomatically occur, for example daily, at midnight. Next, adetermination is made (block 956) as to whether the login at the PDA 130is valid. If it is not valid, a message “Login is invalid” is displayedto the user (block 962), as indicated in FIG. 9(d) (Continued).

If, on the other hand, it is determined at block 956 that the login isvalid, a determination is then made (block 957) as to what mode has beenselected by the user. If the mode selected is Setup Tag, the PDA awaitsthe scan of a tag (e.g. via BLE) at block 958. Next, the PDA 130receives a Tag ID via its short-range interface (e.g. NFC) at block 959.Then, the PDA 130 receives a part code from the user via the screen(which may be a GUI-based touchscreen user interface) at block 960. TheTag ID and part (code) are then saved to the (appropriate database ofthe) CCS 110, for example via internet communication at block 961.

If it is determined at block 957 that the mode selected by the user is asearch function (e.g. “SmartSearch”), then a sync from the CCS isperformed at block 963. Then, a search is performed for a part indicatedin the search request received from the user at block 964. Upon receiptof the search results, the part (ID) or multiple parts (IDs) aredisplayed to the user on the PDA 130 in association with a location atwhich they may be found (block 965). The PDA 130 then awaits furtherinput from the user. A determination is made (block 966) as to whetherthe user has selected (e.g. by clicking on an element of the graphicaluser interface) indicating a desire to indicate (e.g. illuminate) thetag 602 (corresponding to the desired part). If such a selection has notbeen made by the user, then the process ends. However, if it has beendetermined at block 966 that the user has made such a selection (tolight a tag 602), then at block 967 the PDA 130 sends a location (ID)and an illumination request (message) to the CCS 110 requesting that thetag 602 of the desired part be illuminated, e.g. via its visualindicator element (e.g. LED).

If it is determined at block 957 that a mode selected by the user on thePDA 130 is RESTOCK, indicating a desire to restock or replenish a bin,for example, then the PDA 130 awaits the scan of a tag 602 at block 968,e.g. via BLE. Next, at block 969, the PDA 130 receives the Tag ID fromthe tag 602 via its short-range wireless interface, e.g. NFC. The partnumber for that tag is then displayed by the PDA 130 at block 970. Thispart number may be acquired by the PDA 130 by sending the Tag ID as aquery to the location database 939′ and receiving in response the partand/or location ID (as seen in FIG. 9(d)).

Returning to FIG. 9(d) (Continued), after block 970 the PDA 130 thensends the Tag ID and status “Restock Complete” to the CCS at block 971.Finally, at block 972, the PDA 130 writes to the tag 602 via itsshort-range interface (e.g. NFC) that the tag status can change to“Restock Complete”.

FIG. 10(a) shows an asset supply arrangement 1100′ affording “Restockrequest” message transmission, according to another embodiment. In thisembodiment, a dual-bin arrangement 1102′ is used, the dual-binarrangement 1102′ having a housing 1104 in which an upper space 1106 anda lower space 1108 are defined. Both the upper space 1106 and the lowerspace 1108 are able to hold assets 1110. On a visible (here, front)surface 1112 of the housing 1104 there is mounted an asset tag (i.e.composite tag 602 as described hereinabove). In use, a storeman canrestock upper space 1106 via (lockable) transparent flap 1114, and userscan remove and return assets 1110 from lower space 1108 via transparentflap 1116.

Referring especially to FIG. 10(b), divider 1118 having user operablehandle 1119 is configured to move between a first position (dotted linein FIG. 10(c)), in which the divider 1118 forms a floor of the upperspace 1106, and a second position, in which the upper space 1106 and alower space 1108 are contiguous, thereby enabling assets 1110 to fallfrom the upper space 1106 to the lower space 1108. As seen especially inFIG. 10(c), a switch 1120 located on the housing 1104 is activated asthe divider moves out of the first position. That is, reed 1122 movesfrom a closed position (dotted line in FIG. 10(c)) to an open position(solid line), whereupon a restock signal is transmitted to the tag 62,thereby triggering the sending of a restock message by the tag 602 tothe wireless access point 120, as described above. In one embodiment,the restock signal is sent wirelessly from switch 1120 to tag 602 bywireless (e.g. NFC-based) transmitter 1124. Once sent, the visualindicator element may change colour (e.g. from green to orange) toindicate that a restock is pending. As seen in FIG. 10(d), thestoreperson may restock upper space 1106 with assets 1110 by openingupper flap 1114. Following such restock, the visual indicator elementmay change colour (e.g. from orange to green) to indicate that a restockhas been done and the arrangement is in a “system ready” state.

Referring briefly to FIGS. 16 to 21, these show a dual bin arrangementaccording to another embodiment, (a) in perspective view and (b) in sideview, at various stages of operation.

In this embodiment, within the tag-based module of the dual binarrangement 1102″ a reed switch can be disposed on a side (e.g. righthand side) of the module and a pop up flag member 1602 contains themagnet 1604 towards the end thereof. This means when the slider(divider) 1118 is pulled out, the flag member 1602 pops, up breaks thecircuit, and activates the wireless access point 130 for a reorder (i.e.Restock Request).

More particularly, and referring to FIGS. 16 to 21, a flag member 1602is movable between a latched position (FIG. 16(a)) and an indicatingposition (FIG. 19(a)). The flag member may be urged under bias (e.g.spring (not shown), such as a coil spring) into the indicating position.The flag member 1602 may be rotatable (about an axis through point A inFIG. 16(a)) so as to be substantially horizontal in the latched positionand substantially vertical in the indicating position

The flag member 1602 may be held in the latched position by a tag 1606on the divider 1118 when the divider 1118 is in a first (inserted)position. The flag member 1602 is released and movable (in the directionof arrow X in FIG. 18(a)) under the bias as the divider 1118 moves outof the inserted position. After restocking in the upper bin, the flagmember 1602 may be returned to its latched position (FIG. 21) byrotating the flag member 1602 in the direction of arrow Y in FIG. 20,while the divider is reinserted so that the tag 1606 engages the flagmember 1602.

A switch (not shown), e.g. including short-range and/or long-rangewireless interfaces, is installed in the housing 1104, e.g. adjacent thedistal end of the flag member 1602. The switch includes a reed switchand the flag member 1602 includes in or on a portion thereof a magnet1604. The magnet may act to maintain the reed switch closed when theflag member 1602 is held in the latched position. The reed switch may goopen as the flag member 1602 is released and moves out of the latchedposition.

In an embodiment, the flag member 1602 is rotatable so as to besubstantially horizontal in the latched position and substantiallyvertical in the indicating position.

Returning to FIG. 11, this is a flow chart showing processing andcommunication steps involved in restocking of the asset supplyarrangement 1100 of FIG. 10, or the dual bin arrangement of FIGS. 16 to21, according to an embodiment, i.e. (a) at a composite tag 602, (b) ata wireless access point 120, (c) at a central control computer (BLEserver) 110 and (d) at a user device (PDA) 130. This is the same as theembodiment of FIG. 9, with the exception, essentially, that the “Restockrequest” message is triggered via actuation of the switch 1120 as actedupon by (motion of) divider 1118. The wireless access point 120 maycomprise a Bluetooth enabled access point, and/or may comprise awireless and/or Bluetooth enabled tablet computer or fixed reader tiledevice. More particularly, the wireless access point 120 may comprise aBluetooth enabled Android access point.

Referring to FIG. 11(a), this shows the processing at (composite) tag602 according to an embodiment of the invention, in particular for usein the dual bin arrangement of FIG. 10 or the dual bin arrangement ofFIGS. 16 to 21. The processing in FIGS. 11(a) to 11(d) is identical tothe processing described hereinabove in relation to FIGS. 9(a) to 9(d),except as described otherwise hereinafter, and like numerals are used todenote like elements. The description will not be repeated in full, forbrevity.

In the process of FIG. 11(a), at block 902, in determining whethercommunications input has been received, there is additionallyimplemented a check on the reed switch (e.g. of the dual bin arrangement1102′ of FIG. 10 or 1102″ of FIGS. 16 to 21). In particular, the switchof the dual bin arrangement is polled at block 1101 to determine whetherthe contact of the reed switch is in a closed position with the magnetstill present (proximal). In response to this status request, the switchresponds with the status of the reed switch. Then, at block 1102, adetermination is made as to whether the reed switch is in contact withthe magnet (i.e. reed switch in closed condition). If not in contact,the process ends. If, on the other hand, contact is still present,processing proceeds to block 915 (FIG. 11(a) (Continued)), i.e. per thedescription above in relation to FIGS. 9(a) to 9(d).

FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b) show in front view and side view, respectively, asecure asset supply cabinet 1200 according to one embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 12(c) shows a secure asset supply cabinet 1200′according to another embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 12(d) is aschematic diagram of a programmable lock used in the cabinet of FIG.12(a) or 12(c).

Referring to FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b), cabinet 1200 comprises a main body1202 and a pair of doors 1204 having transparent (e.g. glass, Perspex)panels 1205. Here, two doors are illustrated, but one, three or more maybe used. The doors 1204 and main body 1202 are suitably made of steel,but any other suitably strong and rigid material may be used.

A plurality of shelves 1206 are provided within the cabinet 1200, oneach of which are mounted a plurality of storage bins 1102 (here, forsimplicity, only one shelf 1206 is shown supporting bins). Each bin 1102stores stock items 1110. Stock may be, for example, automotivecomponents, electrical components or fasteners. In general, every itemcontained in each particular bin 1102 will be identical.

Optionally, provided at the top right corner of the cabinet 1200 is aswipe card reader 1214 which is able to read swipe cards belonging tousers (e.g. factory employees) and, depending on the ID extracted fromthe swipe card, cause the doors to be released for opening by the user,or not. Although, in this embodiment, a swipe card reader is used, itwill be appreciated that other means of obtaining the user ID may beused, including, for example, IR or short range radio based portabledevices, barcode readers, RFID systems, biometric (e.g. fingerprint,retina scan) devices, and so forth. Dallas keys may also be used.

More particularly, in a preferred embodiment, a wirelessly activatedprogrammable lock 1216 is built into or mounted onto cabinet 1200, e.g.on a side thereof or on a door 1205, as shown in FIG. 12(a). In anotherembodiment (FIG. 12(c)), the cabinet 1200′ comprises a secure, all-metalcabinet having door 1205′, as well as programmable locks (not shown).

In either embodiment, the secure asset supply cabinet 1200/1200′contains an asset supply arrangement 1100, the asset supply arrangementcomprising one or more bins 1102 for holding assets 1110. One or more,or each, bin has on a visible surface thereof an asset tag 602 asdescribed hereinabove. The ID of the asset tag 602 may be associated ina database of a central control computer (110; FIG. 1) with the assets1110 in a respective bin 1102. As mentioned, the asset supply cabinet1200 comprises one or more programmable locks 1214 coupled, wirelessly(e.g. NFC) or by wired connection, to one or more physical locks 1216.

Referring to FIG. 12(d), each programmable lock 1214 comprisesprocessing circuitry 1218 which has coupled thereto a short range (e.g.NFC) wireless interface 1220 and at least one physical lock 1216actuatable by the processing circuitry 1218. Status of the doors(open/closed) is sensed by door sensors (e.g. reed switches) 1222. Thestatus of the programmable lock 1214 is indicated via status display1224. The components of the programmable lock 1214 are powered via powersupply unit 1225.

The processing circuitry 1218 may be configured for (i) receiving anunlock code from a portable wireless device (e.g. PDA) 130 of a user viathe short range wireless interface 1220, the unlock code being based atleast in part on credentials entered by the user on the portablewireless device 130, (ii) determining, based on one or moreauthentication and/or lock codes on the programmable lock 1214 (e.g.provided on a lock setting element 1226), whether the unlock code isauthenticated, and (iii) if the unlock code is authenticated, actuatingthe or each physical lock to unlock the asset supply cabinet.

More particularly, FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the process for a user toobtain access to the secure asset supply cabinet 1200/1200′, and forperforming issue, return and/or restock functions using their PDA 130.However, it will be appreciated that, in particular embodiments, not allof the steps of FIG. 13 need to be performed, and/or they may beperformed in a different sequence/order, where appropriate.

Referring to FIG. 13(a), the process begins with the user logging intothe asset login and/or access software (App) on the PDA 130, for exampleusing a PIN (block 1301). Next, the functions available to the user aredisplayed to the user on the PDA 130 according to the user's permissionslevel (block 1302). The available functions include ISSUE, RETURN andRESTOCK. Thus, the user may select ISSUE at block 1303, RETURN at block1304 or RESTOCK at block 1305. In the latter case, a new list is openedin the graphical user interface of the PDA 130 and/or a job number isinput by the user if required (block 1306). The PDA then awaits scanningof a tag via its short-range wireless interface, e.g. NFC interface. Atblock 1307, a tag is scanned by the user using the short-range wirelessinterface. Next, a determination is made (block 1308) as to whether aTag ID obtained through the scanning at the previous step is a locationtag. Such location tags may start with a predetermined character codesequence, in this embodiment “PN′”.

If it is determined at block 1308 that the Tag ID is not a location tag,then processing proceeds to a tag analysis and/or access determinationsub-process generally designated 1309. In the latter process, initiallya determination is made (block 1310) as to whether the tag scanned(read) is a programmable lock-type tag, also referred to herein as a“SmartLock”. As an example, the tag ID may contain “00000000”,designating a SmartLock. Next, at block 1311, an “Identify” request issent by the PDA 130 to the programmable lock (PL) via the PDA'sshort-range interface. At the same time, the PDA displays a message“SmartLock detected. Please hold the device still.”, as indicated atblock 1312. Next, at block 1313, the programmable lock writes the serialnumber/ID to the chip or memory device of its short-range wirelesscommunication interface (block 1313). After this is done, the serialnumber/ID is erased after a predetermined period (e.g. 10 seconds) if nodevice (tag) is presented to the SmartLock (block 1314). Processingreturns to block 1307.

If, however, at block 1316 it is determined that a tag was correctlyread, a determination is made (block 1318) as to whether the serialnumber is recognised as a valid serial number. At the same time, thevisual display elements are displayed with a steady illumination. If, atblock 1318, the serial number is not recognised, a message is displayedat block 1319. The message may comprise, for example, “ACCESS DENIED.This Secure Cabinet is not accessible using this device”. In addition, aNo-Entry graphical sign may be displayed in red on the screen of thePDA. This may be accompanied by a long vibration on the PDA as well asthe display of an OK button.

Returning to block 1318, if it is determined that the serial number isrecognised as valid, a determination is then made (block 1320) as towhether this user (of the PDA 130) has permission to access thiscabinet. If it is determined that the user does not have permission, thePDA sends a (PL) lock value via its short-range wireless interface, thelock value indicating that access was denied. The lock value may be adefault value not recognisable by the lock. On the programmable lock,this does not open and its visual indicator elements (e.g. LEDs) mayilluminate for a predetermined period (e.g. 1 to 5 seconds) in red,before resuming a steady green illumination (block 1321).

If, however, it is determined at block 1320 that the user does havepermission to access the cabinet, then at block 1323 the PDA 130 sends a(PL) unlock message via its short-range wireless interface. The unlockmessage may include the serial number and/or cabinet hardware ID, thelatter being for example manually set on the lock controller of the PLvia switches. The unlock message instructs the programmable lock toopen. The PL opens and a different visual indication is given by the PL,for example its visual display elements display a moving or rotatingillumination in a predetermined colour, for example green, as opposed toa steady illumination.

At this point, a message is displayed to the user at block 1324. Forexample, the message may include “ACCESS GRANTED. Cabinet unlocked.Please open door to continue”. In addition, a large graphic may bedisplayed on the screen of the PDA 130, for example in green. Inaddition, multiple short vibrations may be implemented by the PDA, forexample two short vibrations. The latter indicate successful unlocking.

If the door is not opened within a predetermined period, for example 4-6seconds, more particularly approximately 8 seconds, the programmablelock relocks and the visual display elements of the PL revert to adifferent illumination. For example, the visual display elements mayrevert to illumination in a solid (steady) green colour.

Next, the user scans with the PDA 130 a tag on an item within thecabinet, for example using the PDA's short-range wireless interface(block 1326). A determination is then made (block 1327) as to whetherthe tag scanned corresponds to a location within the secure cabinet. Ifthe determination is negative, processing moves to block 1334, whereitems are added to a list of items/assets removed by the user.

If, however, at block 1327, it is determined that the scanned tag doescorrespond to a location within the secure cabinet, then items are addedto the list for the user of items removed, but in this instance with anadditional visual indication in the display of the PDA 130. For example,a lock symbol may be displayed on the transaction line for each itemthat has had its tag scanned indicating that it has been scanned from asecure location (within the cabinet). In one embodiment, suchtransaction lines are highlighted with a different colour background,for example yellow, to differentiate items in the list as being secureitems (block 1328). Thereafter, processing moves to block 1329.

At block 1329, a determination is made as to whether there are moreitems to scan by the user.

Referring to FIG. 13(b), if it is determined at block 1308 that the TagID corresponds to a location tag, then a determination is made at block1333 as to whether the tag that was scanned is located inside a securecabinet. If it is not located inside a secure cabinet, processingproceeds to block 1334 at which the item (asset) is added to a list ofitems removed from the secure cabinet.

If, at block 1333, it is determined that the tag that was scanned islocated outside the secure cabinet, then a determination is made (block1335) as to whether the secure cabinet has already been unlocked usingthe PDA 130 (App) during this session. If it has not already beenunlocked, then at block 1336 transactions are locked to the user withrespective transaction lines flagged so as to indicate that for thattransaction or transactions the cabinet was not unlocked using theshort-range wireless interface of the PDA 130 during that session.Thereafter, processing returns to block 1328.

FIG. 14 illustrates the process for providing graphical indications tothe user of a wireless portable device for locating an asset. At thecomposite tag on the asset (not shown), the tag ID (BTID; FIG. 10) isbroadcast via the wireless Bluetooth (BT) interface with a periodicityT1, while the battery powering the Bluetooth component 140 is notdepleted (step s1402). The NFC wireless interface of NFC component 902may also broadcast the tag ID (NFC ID; FIG. 10) with a periodicity T2under power of the battery of the tag 602 (step s1404). Otherwise, whilethe NFC is operable in passive mode, if it is determined (step s1406)that the NFC component 902 has been interrogated by an NFC reader (notshown), then the tag ID (NFC ID; FIG. 10) is broadcast (step s1408) byNFC component 902. Processing then returns to step s1402.

The processing at the PDA 130 commences (step s1410) with the display inthe user interface of the tethered assets for the user of this PDA 130.(FIG. 15 shows examples of user interface views during the process ofFIG. 14.) A check is made as to whether a user input has been receivedselecting an asset (step s1412). If not, processing returns to steps1410. Also displayed (step s1416) is a graphical element in the form ofa ring structure 1502, as shown in FIG. 15(a) to 15(f), which depictexamples of user interface views during the process of FIG. 14.(Optionally, a measure or meter 1510 is displayed within the userinterface of PDA 130.)

As seen in FIG. 15(a), the ring structure 1502 comprises concentricrings (1504 to 1512) and a central disc 1514. Thus, in this embodiment,five rings are used, however, it will be appreciated that any suitablenumber may be employed, e.g. 2 to 8 rings, 3 to 7 rings, 4 to 6 rings,or more preferably 5 rings. In this embodiment, the ring structure 1502comprises a first ring 1504 (i.e., outer ring), a second ring 1506(i.e., second outer ring), and a third ring 1508 (i.e., middle ring).The ring structure further 1502 comprises a fourth ring 1510 (i.e.,second inner ring) and a fifth ring 1514 (i.e., inner ring).

Returning to FIG. 14, at step s1416, it is assumed that the measure(value), i.e. signal strength as a percentage of a maximum, is 0, andthe ring structure 1502 as depicted in FIG. 15(a) is displayed.

At any given instant, the ring structure as depicted in one of FIGS.15(a) to 15(f) is displayed. (Optionally, the measure is simultaneouslydisplayed adjacent the ring structure 1502.)

Next (step s1418), the PDA 130 listens for Bluetooth signals. A check ismade (step s1420) as to whether Bluetooth signals are detected by PDA130. If not, a message such as “no Bluetooth detected” is displayed(s1422) and processing returns to step s1414.

If, on the other hand, Bluetooth signals have been detected, thestrength of the Bluetooth signal is determined at step s1424. A measureis then (optionally) computed, e.g. as a percentage, based on thedetermined strength of the Bluetooth signal (step s1426).

More particularly, step s1426 comprises computing the (current) measure(value) and determining which of the rings 1504 to 1512 is to beilluminated. This may comprise determining, in respect of each of aplurality of successively higher thresholds, each thresholdcorresponding to one of a plurality of concentric rings in the ringstructure 1502, whether the measure lies between that threshold and animmediately lower threshold. There may be 2 to 8 thresholds, 3 to 7thresholds, 4 to 6 thresholds, or more preferably 5 thresholds. Each ofthe plurality of concentric rings in the ring structure 1902 may beilluminated in a respective, different colour.

In the present embodiment, the procedure for this step s1426 may bedescribed as follows.

-   If (measure unavailable OR measure=0) then display ring structure    1502 of FIG. 15(a) with no rings illuminated and only central disc    1516 illuminated-   Else if (0≤measure≤t1) then display ring structure 1502 of FIG.    19(b) with only the first ring 1504 illuminated in a first colour    and central disc 1516 illuminated-   Else if (t1≤measure≤t2) then display ring structure 1502 of FIG.    15(c) with only the second ring 1506 illuminated in a second colour    and central disc 1516 illuminated-   Else if (t2≤measure≤t3) then display ring structure 1502 of FIG.    15(c) with only the third ring 1508 illuminated in a third colour    and central disc 1516 illuminated-   Else if (t3≤measure≤t4) then display ring structure 1502 of FIG.    15(c) with only the fourth ring 1510 illuminated in a fourth colour    and central disc 1516 illuminated-   Else if (t4≤measure≤t5) then display ring structure 1502 of FIG.    15(c) with only the fifth ring 1512 illuminated in a fifth colour    and central disc 1516 illuminated.

In this embodiment, the thresholds t1, t2, t3, t4, t5 are, respectively10, 40, 60, 80 and 100. In this embodiment, the plurality of concentricrings (1504-1512) in the ring structure 1502 are illuminatedrespectively, in the colours blue, purple, pink, orange and red.

Next, the user interface (FIG. 15) is updated to (optionally) displaythe computed measure as a percentage together with ring structure 1502.Then, until it is detected (step s1430) that the locator application hasbeen closed by the user, steps s1418 to s1428 are repeated as the userchanges his orientation in order to detect the location of the asset.This is illustrated in FIGS. 15b -15 e.

According to aspects of the invention, there are provided the following.

An asset supply arrangement 1100 as described above is provided on avehicle of a user (e.g. workman's van). Assets are booked out andreturned by the user through the use of his PDA 130, with transactionsperformed as discussed above, via short-range (e.g. NFC) communicationbetween the PDA 130 and the composite tag 602 on the front of a bin 1102of the asset supply arrangement 1100. In addition, a composite tag 602is provided on each asset 1110. A wireless access point (e.g. Bluetoothenabled tablet or reader tile) is also mounted on the van and polls thetags 602 on the assets 1110 at regular intervals, via wirelesscommunication (e.g. Bluetooth). In the event that the user removes anasset 1110 without booking out the asset (by tapping his PDA on thecomposite tag 602) or otherwise, then a subsequent polling attempt bythe access point 120 returns a negative result. A combination of“non-booked out” status plus the negative polling result, as determinedby the access point, causes a message to be sent to a central controlcomputer 110 indicating that the asset if booked out to the user.

The PDA 130 includes an app enabling the user to search for an asset1110, e.g. including a GUI enabling selection of the asset 1110 and/orinputting of a search request identifying the asset 1110. The searchrequest may be communicated wirelessly to the access point 120 and/orcentral control computer 110, including via a composite tag 602 withwhich the PDA 130 is in wireless communication. As a result, anillumination message is sent to a specific tag 602 (i.e. of a bin 1102)in which the searched asset is stored. The illumination message may berouted in dependence upon a location identifier indicating the currentlocation of the PDA 130 and may originate from the central controlcomputer 110 and/or access point 120 and/or the PDA 130. Upon receipt ofthe illumination message, the specific tag 602 illuminates in a specificcolour (e.g. blue) thereby assisting in guiding the user to theappropriate bin.

According to aspects of the invention, there are provided the following.

A tag 602 (Bluetooth IOT device with NFC and Bluetooth module) has atactile button and RGB LED and a reed switch/magnetometer.

A tag 602 is applied to a bin/shelf (Adhesive/magnetic/fastened), theNFC component and mac address having the same number or being associatedin the CCC 110 (cloud based software) database. The tag 602 isassociated with a product type for that location, e.g. m8×10 mmstainless steel bolts (part Number M8×10SS). A predetermined restockquantity is defined in the CCC 110 for the nominated distributorreplenishing that product to replenish when a user notices that thecontents of the SKU (Bin/Shelf) is running low. Pressing the buttontwice activates the tag 602 to send a reorder message via Bluetooth to areader (that can read Bluetooth messages) from significant distances (aminimum of 30 meters in open air). The reader has processing capabilityfor reading messages including sensor messages, e.g. temperature,movement, pressure for condition monitoring of assets. In thisapplication, the reader is a processing and communication device thatprocesses the restock messages from tags 602 and sends them to the CCC110 via 3G or a wireless network. On the user pressing the tag's buttontwice, the LED flashes orange (quickly) to indicate to the user that areorder message is being sent. When the CCC 110 acknowledges themessage, the LED flashes purple (slower rate). When the re-stockerdelivers product into the SKU, simply scanning the tag 602 with thePDA's app and clicking restock resets the tag 602 and turns the LEDgreen to signify a completed restock. If the re-stocker is notdelivering the full predetermined quantity they also have the option tokey in the quantity on the app they are delivering to that location.

The tag is green when pressed once to signify it has been restocked thatday. After midnight on the day of restock, if pressed, it turns blue toindicate normal status. As the users deplete the inventory in thelocation and it looks low to a user, the tag's button can again bepressed twice to send a restock message and the process is repeated.

Additional Aspects

-   -   1. An automated replenishment solution using Bluetooth wireless        technology, a fixed Bluetooth reader with 3G/wireless        connectivity to the CCC 110, cloud based software.    -   2. Low cost retrofit solution.    -   3. Two-way communication with the tag to the CCC 110 via the        fixed reader. Allowing procurement status to be displayed via        LED lights/LCD display/e-ink.    -   4. Two-way communication also allows firmware updates from the        CCC 110/apps over the air. It also allows an administrator with        the right authority to disable/block reorders from a tag if the        item becomes obsolete. If an item is changed for a new product,        this can be done over the air or with the NFC of the app.    -   5. The NFC component allows the tag to be addressable with an        app and a location and product assigned to the tag/SKU.    -   6. An app can also be used to issue and restock specific        quantities of product to/by specific users, with job number        allocation and batch control using NFC.    -   7. The app is used to restock using the NFC component and can        communicate directly with the CCC 110. The restock process with        the app automatically resets the tag so product can again be        reordered by pressing the button twice.    -   8. Usage can be monitored by item.    -   9. KPI's on order fulfilment in the cloud by item—multi company        multi-site, by distributor branch/restocker.    -   10. The solution can be on mobile trolleys due to its wireless        and battery powered technology but still automates the        replenishment process.    -   11. The trolley of bins or individual bins can be tracked with        strategically placed fixed readers or the PDA's app.    -   12. On restock the re-stocker can select the item to be        restocked on a restock list and it will light up the bin to        ensure the correct product goes in the right bin and speed up        the restock process.    -   13. If the status button is repeatedly pressed after a reorder,        it will deactivate the status display to conserve battery in the        composite tag for a predetermined period.        Dual Bin Asset Supply Arrangement

A tag 602 (Bluetooth IOT device with NFC and Bluetooth module) has atactile button and RGB LED and a reed switch/magnetometer.

A tag is applied to a vertical bin (Adhesive/magnetic/fastened) with twochambers that open at the front. The top chamber is lockable and canonly be accessed by the re-stocker. The two chambers of the bin areseparated vertically with a horizontal slider. The NFC component and macaddress will have the same number or be associated in the CCC 110database. The tag is associated with a product type for that locatione.g. m8×10 mm stainless steel bolts (Part Number M8×10SS). Apredetermined restock quantity is defined in the CCC 110 for thenominated distributor replenishing that product to replenish. When auser notices that the contents of the lower chamber of the dual bin isrunning low, they pull the slider which empties the contents of the toppart of the bin into the lower part of the bin. The act of pulling theslider breaks the contact between the magnet in the slider and the reedswitch in the tag and automatically reorders the predetermined quantityfor replenishment in the upper chamber of the dual bin. The tag sends areorder message via Bluetooth to a reader (that can read Bluetoothmessages) from significant distances (a minimum of 30 meters in open airand up to 100 meters—depending on the power output of the tag). Thereader has processing capability for reading messages including sensormessages, e.g. temperature, movement, pressure for condition monitoringof assets. In this application, the reader is a processing andcommunication device that processes the restock messages from tags andsends them to the CCC 110 (cloud based software) via 3G or a wirelessnetwork. It also sends acknowledgment messages from the CCC 110 andfirmware updates for the tags. If for some reason the reorder message isnot sent and the tag does not go orange, the user can press the tagtwice which will reorder the material. This is a contingency ifsomething goes wrong with the reed switch or the polling of messagesfrom the reed switch.

When the slider is pulled out, the LED flashes orange (quickly) toindicate to the user that a reorder message is being sent. When the CCC110 acknowledges the message, the LED flashes purple (slower rate). Whenthe re-stocker delivers product into the SKU, he simply restocks the topbin, scans the tag with the PDA's app and clicks restock which resetsthe tag and turns the LED green to signify a completed restock. If there-stocker is not delivering the full predetermined quantity, they alsohave the option to key in the quantity they are delivering to the upperchamber of the dual bin. This ensures an accurate record of usagethrough the dual bin.

Procurement Status Indication:

The tag is green when pressed once to signify it has been restocked thatday. After midnight on the day of restock, if pressed, it will turn blueto indicate normal status. As the users deplete the inventory in thelocation and it looks low to a user, the slider can again be pulled toempty the contents of the upper chamber into the lower chamber of thedual bin to restart the replenishment process.

Additional Aspects

-   -   1. An automated replenishment solution using Bluetooth wireless        technology, a fixed Bluetooth reader with 3G/wireless        connectivity to the CCC 110, cloud based software on a vertical        bin with two chambers separated with a horizontal slider. The        slider has a magnet and forms a made switch with the reed switch        at the base of the tag. Only the re-stocker can open the top        bin.    -   2. Automated replenishment trigger when the slider is pulled.        The act of obtaining more inventory automatically breaks the        switch and activates the tag to reorder the predetermined        quantity in the top of the dual bin.    -   3. Two-way communication with the tag to the CCC 110 via the        fixed reader. Allowing procurement status to be displayed via        LED lights/LCD display/e-ink.    -   4. Two-way communication also allows firmware updates from the        CCC 110/apps over the air. It also allows an administrator with        the right authority to disable/block reorders from a tag if the        item becomes obsolete. If an item is changed for a new product,        this can be done over the air or with the NFC of the app.    -   5. The NFC component allows the tag on the dual bin to be        addressable with an app and a location and product assigned to        the tag/SKU.    -   6. An app can also be used to issue and restock specific        quantities of product to/by specific users, with job number        allocation and batch control using NFC.    -   7. If the predetermined quantity is not available for the upper        chamber but a lower or different quantity is restocked, the app        can be used to inform the CCC 110 of the precise quantity        restocked in the upper chamber. This ensures accurate usage        information is maintained against the item in the CCC 110 cloud        based software.    -   8. The solution can be on mobile trolleys due to its wireless        and battery powered technology but still automates the        replenishment process.    -   9. Usage can be monitored by item.    -   10. KPI's on order fulfilment in the cloud by item—multi company        multi-site, by distributor branch/restocker.    -   11. The trolley of bins or individual bins can be tracked with        strategically placed fixed readers 120 or the PDA's 130 app        using the Bluetooth network.    -   12. On restock the re-stocker can select the item to be        restocked on a restock list and it will light up the bin to        ensure the correct product goes in the right bin and speed up        the restock process.    -   13. If the status button is repeatedly pressed after a reorder,        it will deactivate the status display to conserve battery on the        tag for a predetermined period.    -   14. The top chamber is lockable and can be accessed using the        app with an NFC (Near Field communication) operated lock using        the induced power of the battery on the phone to unlock.

While embodiments have been described by reference to embodiments ofstock monitoring systems having various components in their respectiveimplementations, it will be appreciated that other embodiments make useof other combinations and permutations of these and other components.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “anembodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristicdescribed in connection with the embodiment is included in at least oneembodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases“in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughoutthis specification are not necessarily all referring to the sameembodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures orcharacteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, inone or more embodiments.

Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description ofexemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of theinvention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure,or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosureand aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventiveaspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted asreflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires morefeatures than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as thefollowing claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than allfeatures of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claimsfollowing the Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporatedinto this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as aseparate embodiment of this invention.

Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some butnot other features included in other embodiments, combinations offeatures of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope ofthe invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood bythose skilled in the art. For example, in the following claims, any ofthe claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

Furthermore, some of the embodiments are described herein as a method orcombination of elements of a method that can be implemented by aprocessor of a computer system or by other means of carrying out thefunction. Thus, a processor with the necessary instructions for carryingout such a method or element of a method forms a means for carrying outthe method or element of a method. Furthermore, an element describedherein of an apparatus embodiment is an example of a means for carryingout the function performed by the element for the purpose of carryingout the invention.

In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are setforth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention maybe practiced without these specific details. In other instances,well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown indetail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the use of the ordinaladjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a commonobject, merely indicate that different instances of like objects arebeing referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects sodescribed must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, inranking, or in any other manner.

All publications, patents, and patent applications cited herein arehereby incorporated by reference.

Any discussion of prior art in this specification should in no way beconsidered an admission that such prior art is widely known, is publiclyknown, or forms part of the general knowledge in the field.

In the claims below and the description herein, any one of the terms“comprising”, “comprised of” or “which comprises” is an open term thatmeans including at least the elements/features that follow, but notexcluding others. Thus, the term “comprising”, when used in the claims,should not be interpreted as being limitative to the means or elementsor steps listed thereafter. For example, the scope of the expression “adevice comprising A and B” should not be limited to devices consistingonly of elements A and B. Any one of the terms “including” or “whichincludes” or “that includes” as used herein is also an open term thatalso means including at least the elements/features that follow theterm, but not excluding others. Thus, “including” is synonymous with andmeans “comprising”.

Similarly, it is to be noticed that the term “coupled”, when used in theclaims, should not be interpreted as being limitative to directconnections only. The terms “coupled” and “connected,” along with theirderivatives, may be used. It should be understood that these terms arenot intended as synonyms for each other. Thus, the scope of theexpression “a device A coupled to a device B” should not be limited todevices or systems wherein an output of device A is directly connectedto an input of device B. It means that there exists a path between anoutput of A and an input of B which may be a path including otherdevices or means. “Coupled” may mean that two or more elements areeither in direct physical or electrical contact, or that two or moreelements are not in direct contact with each other but yet stillco-operate or interact with each other. For example, in the context ofairflow, where an outlet of A is coupled to an inlet of B it may be thatone or more additional devices are provided between the outlet of A andthe inlet of B.

Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be thepreferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art willrecognize that other and further modifications may be made theretowithout departing from the scope of the invention, and it is intended toclaim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of theinvention. For example, any formulas given above are merelyrepresentative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may beadded or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may beinterchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted tomethods described within the scope of the present invention.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An asset tag adapted to be mounted to anasset, the asset tag comprising: a first component encoded with a firstID unique to the asset tag, the first component having a first wirelessinterface and being adapted to transmit first broadcast signals via saidfirst wireless interface over a first range, the first broadcast signalsincluding the first ID; a user-actuatable button; processing circuitry,coupled to the button and to at least the first wireless interface, theprocessing circuitry being configured for (i) determining whether apredetermined gesture has been performed by a user using the button and(ii) if the predetermined gesture has been performed, transmitting viathe first wireless interface to a wireless access point a restockmessage, the restock message including the first ID and indicating thatrestocking is required of assets corresponding to the first ID; a secondcomponent encoded with a second ID unique to the asset tag, the secondcomponent having a second wireless interface and being adapted totransmit second broadcast signals via said second wireless interfaceover a second range, the second broadcast signals including the secondID, wherein the processing circuitry is coupled to the second wirelessinterface and configured for transmitting the restock message via thefirst wireless interface and/or second wireless interface, the restockmessage including the first ID and/or the second ID and indicating thatrestocking is required of assets corresponding to the first and/orsecond ID; and a write switch coupled to the processing circuitry;wherein the processing circuitry is configured, upon actuation of thewrite switch, to (i) obtain the first ID from the first component andwrite or rewrite the first ID to a storage element of the secondcomponent and (ii) turn off the second component.
 2. The asset tagaccording to claim 1, further including a user-actuatable push button ona housing of the asset tag for actuating the write switch.
 3. A hardhat, bicycle or motorcycle helmet incorporating an asset tag, the assettag comprising: a first component encoded with a first ID unique to theasset tag, the first component having a first wireless interface andbeing adapted to transmit first broadcast signals via said firstwireless interface over a first range, the first broadcast signalsincluding the first ID; a user-actuatable button; processing circuitry,coupled to the button and to at least the first wireless interface, theprocessing circuitry being configured for (i) determining whether apredetermined gesture has been performed by a user using the button and(ii) if the predetermined gesture has been performed, transmitting viathe first wireless interface to a wireless access point a restockmessage, the restock message including the first ID and indicating thatrestocking is required of assets corresponding to the first ID; and anaccelerometer coupled to the processing circuitry; wherein theprocessing circuitry is configured to store time and/or amplitude datafor any impacts recorded by the accelerometer above a threshold impactlevel.
 4. A method of configuring an asset tag, the method comprising,during manufacture and/or assembly of the asset tag, (i) obtaining afirst ID from a first component and writing or rewriting the first ID toa storage element of a second component and (ii) turning off the secondcomponent, wherein the asset tag comprises the first component encodedwith the first ID unique to the asset tag, the first component having afirst wireless interface and being adapted to transmit first broadcastsignals via said first wireless interface over a first range, the firstbroadcast signals including the first ID; a user-actuatable button;processing circuitry, coupled to the button and to at least the firstwireless interface, the processing circuitry being configured for (i)determining whether a predetermined gesture has been performed by a userusing the button and (ii) if the predetermined gesture has beenperformed, transmitting via the first wireless interface to a wirelessaccess point a restock message, the restock message including the firstID and indicating that restocking is required of assets corresponding tothe first ID the second component encoded with a second ID unique to theasset tag, the second component having a second wireless interface andbeing adapted to transmit second broadcast signals via said secondwireless interface over a second range, the second broadcast signalsincluding the second ID, wherein the processing circuitry is coupled tothe second wireless interface and configured for transmitting therestock message via the first wireless interface and/or second wirelessinterface, the restock message including the first ID and/or the secondID and indicating that restocking is required of assets corresponding tothe first and/or second ID.